Peristaltic pump with feeler pin

ABSTRACT

Peristaltic pumps are described herein. In certain embodiments, a peristaltic pump includes a plunger and a feeler pin. The plunger is movable to selectively engage a pumping volume of a tubing segment to expand the pumping volume to draw fluid flow into the pumping volume and to contract the pumping volume to conduct fluid flow from the pumping volume. The feeler pin extends through the plunger and movable to maintain contact with the tubing segment, wherein the feeler pin is movable in response to a height of the pumping volume.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/586,610, filed Jan. 27, 2022, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application 63/142,913, filed Jan. 28, 2021, thedisclosures of which are incorporated herein by their reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to pumps, and, in particular,to peristaltic pumps.

BACKGROUND

Patients in hospitals often receive medications and medical fluids(e.g., a saline solution or a liquid medication) via infusion using anintravenous (“IV”) pump. In some applications, an IV pump usesperistaltic manipulation of a segment of tubing of an IV set to createthe flow of medical fluid to the patient.

SUMMARY

The disclosed subject matter relates to peristaltic pumps. In certainembodiments, a peristaltic pump includes a plunger movable toselectively engage a pumping volume of a tubing segment to expand thepumping volume to draw fluid flow into the pumping volume and tocontract the pumping volume to conduct fluid flow from the pumpingvolume; and a feeler pin extending through the plunger and movable tomaintain contact with the tubing segment, wherein the feeler pin ismovable in response to a height of the pumping volume.

In certain embodiments, a peristaltic pump includes a plunger movable toselectively engage a pumping volume of a tubing segment; a feeler pinextending through the plunger; and a camshaft comprising a plunger camlobe, wherein the plunger cam lobe is configured to move the plungerbetween an expansion position to draw fluid flow into the pumping volumeand a contraction position to conduct fluid flow from the pumpingvolume, and the feeler pin is movable in response to a height of thepumping volume.

In certain embodiments, a method is disclosed and comprises expanding aperistaltic pumping volume of a tubing segment; and measuring a heightof the tubing segment via a feeler pin in contact with the tubingsegment during the expansion of the pumping volume.

It is understood that various configurations of the subject technologywill become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from thedisclosure, wherein various configurations of the subject technology areshown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, thesubject technology is capable of other and different configurations andits several details are capable of modification in various otherrespects, all without departing from the scope of the subjecttechnology. Accordingly, the summary, drawings and detailed descriptionare to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide furtherunderstanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of thisspecification, illustrate disclosed embodiments and together with thedescription serve to explain the principles of the disclosedembodiments. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 depicts a patient receiving an infusion of a medical fluid usingan IV pump.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump, in accordance withvarious aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B is a simplified view of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of components of the peristaltic pump of FIG.2A.

FIG. 4A is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 2A in afilling phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 4B is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 2A in adelivery phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 4C is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 2A in adelivered position, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5A is a simplified perspective view of a peristaltic pump, inaccordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a top view of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a back view of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of components of the peristaltic pump of FIG.5A.

FIG. 7A is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 5A in afilling phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 7B is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 5A in aninitial position, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 7C is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 5A in adelivery phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 7D is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 5A in adelivered position, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 8A is a simplified perspective view of a peristaltic pump, inaccordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8B is a top view of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8C is a back view of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of components of the peristaltic pump of FIG.8A.

FIG. 10A is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 8A in afilling phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 10B is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 8A in aninitial position, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 10C is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 8A in adelivery phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 10D is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 8A in adelivered position, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump, in accordance withvarious aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11B is a simplified view of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the feeler pin of the peristaltic pumpof FIG. 11A.

FIG. 13A is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 11A in afilling phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 13B is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 11A in adelivery phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 13C is an illustration of the peristaltic pump of FIG. 11A in adelivered position, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description ofvarious configurations of the subject technology and is not intended torepresent the only configurations in which the subject technology may bepracticed. The detailed description includes specific details for thepurpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology.However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that thesubject technology may be practiced without these specific details. Insome instances, well-known structures and components are shown in blockdiagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subjecttechnology. Like components are labeled with identical element numbersfor ease of understanding. Reference numbers may have letter suffixesappended to indicate separate instances of a common element while beingreferred to generically by the same number without a suffix letter.

While the following description is directed to administration of medicalfluid by utilizing the disclosed peristaltic pumps, it is to beunderstood that this description is only an example of usage and doesnot limit the scope of the claims. Various aspects of the disclosedperistaltic pumps may be used in any application where it is desirableto administer the flow of fluid.

FIG. 1 depicts a patient 5 receiving an infusion of a medical fluidusing an IV pump 30. In the depicted example, the IV pump 30 isdelivering a medical fluid from a fluid container 36 to the patient 5. Afluid container 36 is hung at or above the patient's head and connectedvia an IV set 20 to the IV pump module 34 and then to the patient 5. Insome embodiments, the IV pump 30 includes a control unit 32 and apumping module 34.

The pumping module 34 can include a peristaltic pump to administer themedical fluid from the fluid container 36 to the patient 5.

During operation of the peristaltic pump, it may be desirable to monitorthe volume pumped by the peristaltic pump. In some applications, theperistaltic pump can include a measurement phase between a refill phaseand a delivery phase.

The disclosed peristaltic pump can incorporate various measurementmechanisms to allow for monitoring the volume pumped by the peristalticpump. The disclosed peristaltic pump can include feeler mechanisms,biasing members with various levels of force, and/or split plungers. Byutilizing the measurement mechanisms disclosed herein, the peristalticpump can allow for monitoring without a dedicated measurement phaseand/or without generating high internal pressures.

The disclosed peristaltic pump overcomes several challenges discoveredwith respect to certain measurement approaches utilized with peristalticpumps. One challenge with certain measurement approaches is that duringa dedicated measurement phase, a plunger may apply a large force to afluid volume confined between an upper valve and a lower valve tomeasure the fluid volume, pressurizing the fluid volume. Accordingly,the upper valve and the lower valve may apply a large force to thetubing that contains the pressurized fluid volume during measurement,which may damage or cause wear to the tubing. Another challenge withcertain measurement approaches is that flow may be discontinued during adedicated measurement phase, promoting out-gassing of dissolved gases inan infusate. Because damage or wear to the tubing can result in tubingmaterial particulate to dislodge from the tubing and enter a patient'sbloodstream and out-gassing of dissolved gases can cause embolisms in apatient, it is advantageous to provide measurement mechanisms that allowfor measurement of a fluid volume without a dedicated measurement phaseand/or without generating high internal pressures. The disclosedperistaltic pumps provide for measurement of a fluid volume without adedicated measurement phase and/or without generating high internalpressures during a measurement phase.

Examples of peristaltic pumps that allow for measurement of a fluidvolume without a dedicated measurement phase and/or without generatinghigh internal pressures are now described.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump 100, in accordancewith various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B is a simplifiedview of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 2A. In the depicted example,the peristaltic pump 100 can peristaltically manipulate tubing to createthe flow of medical fluid to the patient. In some embodiments, anupstream portion of the tubing is in fluid communication with a sourceof medical fluid, such as an IV bag or other medical fluid container,and the downstream portion of the tubing is in fluid communication withIV tubing to the patient. In some embodiments, the peristaltic pump 100repeatedly cycles between a filling phase and a delivery phase toadminister fluid to the patient. As described herein, the peristalticpump 100 allows for volume measurements without requiring a dedicatedmeasurement phase.

In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 includes a plunger110, an upstream occluder or valve 120, and a downstream occluder orvalve 130, each configured to contact and manipulate the tubing todeliver fluid from a fluid source to the patient. In some embodiments,the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and the downstream valve 130can move in coordinated, sequential steps to pump fluid through thetubing. The tubing can be formed from a mechanically resilient material.The tubing can be supported by a backer 180 as the plunger 110, theupstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130 contact andmanipulate the tubing.

As described herein, the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or thedownstream valve 130 can be moved by one or more actuators. The movementof actuators that control the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120,and/or the downstream valve 130 can be coordinated, or otherwisesequenced. In the depicted example, the movement of the plunger 110, theupstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130 is cyclical.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of components of the peristaltic pump 100 ofFIG. 2A. With reference to FIGS. 2A-3 , the peristaltic pump 100 caninclude a camshaft 150 to actuate the plunger 110, the upstream valve120, and/or the downstream valve 130. In the depicted example, thecamshaft 150 includes one or more cam lobes, such as a plunger cam lobe154, an upstream valve cam lobe 152, and/or a downstream valve cam lobe156.

As described herein, the geometry of the respective cam lobes can beshaped or modified to allow for a desired actuation or movement of theplunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130.For example, portions of a cam lobe with a larger radius can allow forthe plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130to open or lift further from the tubing and/or backer 180 while portionsof a cam lobe with a smaller radius can allow the plunger 110, theupstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130 to closer orotherwise be urged toward the tubing and/or backing.

In some embodiments, the cam lobes of the camshaft 150 actuate one ormore rockers to control the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/orthe downstream valve 130. As can be appreciated, the geometry of therockers described herein can be configured to provide a desiredactuation ratio between the movement of the plunger 110, the upstreamvalve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130 and the geometry of theplunger cam lobe 154, upstream valve cam lobe 152, and/or the downstreamvalve cam lobe 156, respectively. As described herein, certain rockers,such as the second plunger valve rocker 111 b may move independently ormay otherwise not be directly actuated by the camshaft 150. The firstplunger valve rocker 111 a, the second plunger valve rocker 111 b, theupstream valve rocker 121, and/or the downstream valve rocker 131 caneach rotate or pivot about a pivot shaft 170.

In the depicted example, biasing members, such as springs can urge theplunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130toward the tubing and/or the backer 180. In some embodiments, biasingmembers can act upon the rockers to urge the plunger 110, the upstreamvalve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130 toward the tubing and/or thebacker 180. During operation, actuation of the plunger 110, the upstreamvalve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130 by the camshaft can overcomethe biasing force applied by the biasing members to lift or otherwiseactuate the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or the downstreamvalve 130.

Further, the arrangement or phasing of the cam lobes about the camshaft150 can be modified to provide a desired sequence of actuation ormovement of the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or thedownstream valve 130 as the camshaft 150 is rotated. For example, theplunger cam lobe 154, the upstream valve cam lobe 152, and/or thedownstream valve cam lobe 156 can each have a cam profile and/or arelative arrangement that eliminates or otherwise does not include adedicated measurement phase where the plunger 110 is actuated against apumping volume of the tubing closed by the upstream valve 120 and thedownstream valve 130.

In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 includes a splitrocker arrangement with a first plunger valve rocker 111 a directlycoupled to the plunger 110 and a second plunger valve rocker 111 bconfigured to act upon the first plunger valve rocker 111 a. In someembodiments, the first plunger valve rocker 111 a is spaced apart,decoupled, not aligned, or otherwise not directly actuated by theplunger cam lobe 154. As can be appreciated, the first plunger valverocker 111 a and therefore the plunger 110 may be independently moved oractuated separate from the actuation of the plunger cam lobe 154.

In the depicted example, a first plunger biasing member 164 a can actupon the first plunger valve rocker 111 a to urge the plunger 110 towardthe tubing and/or the backer 180. As can be appreciated, the biasingforce applied by the first plunger biasing member 164 a to the firstplunger valve rocker 11 a and the plunger 110 can be a constant orchronic force that is independent of the rotation of the camshaft 150.During operation, the arrangement of the first plunger valve rocker 111a and the first plunger biasing member 164 a can allow the plunger 110to maintain contact with the tubing. As can be appreciated, the forceapplied by the first plunger biasing member 164 a can be sufficient forthe plunger 110 to maintain contact with the tubing without damaging thetubing.

In the depicted example, the position of the plunger 110 can be used todetermine the volume of fluid administered by the peristaltic pump 100.During operation, the height of the plunger 110 can be used to determinethe height of the pumping volume within the tubing, which can be used todetermine the volume of fluid administered by the peristaltic pump 100.Advantageously, the arrangement of the first plunger biasing member 164a and the first plunger valve rocker 111 a allows for the plunger 110 topermit volume measurements without exerting excess force or requiring adedicated measurement phase.

In the depicted example, the second plunger valve rocker 111 b isaligned, positioned, or otherwise configured to be actuated by theplunger cam lobe 154. During operation, a portion of the second plungervalve rocker 111 b can engage or slide along the cam profile of theplunger cam lobe 154 to translate the geometry of the cam profile intomovement of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b. In some embodiments,during certain movements (e.g., during a delivery phase of operation)the second plunger valve rocker 111 b can engage with the first plungervalve rocker 111 a to move the plunger 110 relative to the tubing inresponse to actuation from the plunger cam lobe 154.

In the depicted example, a second plunger biasing member 164 b can actupon the second plunger valve rocker 111 b to urge the second plungervalve rocker 111 b toward the first plunger valve rocker 111 a. Duringcertain portions of operation (e.g., the delivery phase of operation)the second plunger biasing member 164 b can force the second plungervalve rocker 111 b to engage with the first plunger valve rocker 111 aand urge the plunger 110 toward the tubing and/or the backer 180. As canbe appreciated, actuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b bythe rotation of the plunger cam lobe 154 can overcome the biasing forceto disengage the second plunger valve rocker 111 b from the firstplunger valve rocker 111 a. Accordingly, the biasing force applied bythe second plunger biasing member 164 b to the first plunger valverocker 111 a and/or the plunger 110 can vary in response to theactuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b by the rotation ofthe plunger cam lobe 154. During operation, the arrangement of thesecond plunger valve rocker 111 b and the second plunger biasing member164 b relative to the first plunger valve rocker 111 a and the firstplunger biasing member 164 a allows the peristaltic pump 100 to applyadditional force to the plunger during certain portions of operation(e.g., the delivery phase) while allowing the first plunger biasingmember 164 a to maintain a chronic biasing force against the tubing. Insome embodiments, the force applied by the second plunger biasing member164 b is higher than the biasing force applied by the first plungerbiasing member 164 a. Optionally, the force applied by the secondplunger biasing member 164 b is sufficient to allow fluid delivery. Insome embodiments, the first plunger biasing member 164 a and the secondplunger biasing member 164 b cooperatively provide sufficient force toallow for fluid delivery.

In some embodiments, an upstream valve rocker 121 is coupled to theupstream valve 120 and can move the upstream valve 120 in response toactuation from the upstream valve cam lobe 152. During operation, aportion of the upstream valve rocker 121 can engage or slide along thecam profile of the upstream valve cam lobe 152 to translate the geometryof the cam profile into movement of the upstream valve 120 relative tothe tubing.

As illustrated, an upstream valve biasing member 162 can act upon theupstream valve rocker 121 to urge the upstream valve 120 toward thetubing and/or the backer 180. As can be appreciated, actuation of theupstream valve rocker 121 by the rotation of the upstream valve cam lobe152 can overcome the biasing force to lift or otherwise actuate theupstream valve 120.

Similarly, a downstream valve rocker 131 is coupled to the downstreamvalve 130 and can move the downstream valve 130 in response to actuationfrom the downstream valve cam lobe 156. During operation, a portion ofthe downstream valve rocker 131 can engage or slide along the camprofile of the downstream valve cam lobe 156 to translate the geometryof the cam profile into movement of the downstream valve 130 relative tothe tubing.

Similarly, a downstream valve biasing member 166 can act upon thedownstream valve rocker 131 to urge the downstream valve 130 toward thetubing and/or the backer 180. As can be appreciated, actuation of thedownstream valve rocker 131 by the rotation of the downstream valve camlobe 156 can overcome the biasing force to lift or otherwise actuate thedownstream valve 130.

FIG. 4A is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 2A in afilling phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. During operation, the tubing 102 draws in medical fluid 10during the filling phase. As illustrated, the plunger 110 is withdrawnor retracted from a compressed portion of the tubing 102, allowing thetubing walls 104 to resiliently expand the pumping volume 107 to anoriginal or expanded state.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the pumping volume 107 drawsin fluid into the pumping volume 107. The mechanical resilience of thetubing 102 allows the tubing walls 104 to expand from a compressed stateto an expanded state, expanding the pumping volume 107. The rate atwhich the pumping volume 107 rebounds from a compressed state to anexpanded state can determine the amount of fluid that can be drawn intothe pumping volume 107 in a given period of time.

As illustrated, during the expansion of the pumping volume 107, thedownstream portion 108 of the tubing 102 is blocked, pinched, orotherwise occluded by the downstream valve 130 to prevent or restrictbackflow or contamination of fluid into the pumping volume 107.

In the depicted example, the downstream valve 130 is actuated, moveddownward, or otherwise engaged to compress the tubing walls 104 of thetubing 102 at the downstream portion 108 to occlude flow through thedownstream portion 108 of the tubing 102. The downstream valve 130 caninclude a beveled engagement portion to contact the tubing 102. Whenengaged, the downstream valve 130 can prevent or restrict flow or fluidcommunication from the downstream portion 108 into the pumping volume107.

During the expansion of the pumping volume 107, medical fluid 10 isdrawn into pumping volume 107 from the upstream portion 106 of thetubing 102. As illustrated, during the expansion of the pumping volume107, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 is unobstructed by theupstream valve 120, permitting medical fluid 10 into the pumping volume107. During operation, the upstream valve 120 is withdrawn or retractedfrom a compressed portion of the tubing 102, allowing the tubing walls104 to resiliently expand the upstream portion 106 to an original orexpanded state.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the upstream portion 106permits the flow of medical fluid 10 into the pumping volume 107. Themechanical resilience of the tubing 102 allows the tubing walls 104 toexpand from a compressed state to an expanded state, expanding thecross-sectional profile or flow area of the upstream portion 106. Theamount of medical fluid 10 drawn into the pumping volume 107 during thefilling phase can be determined by the timing and sequence of theplunger 110, the upstream valve 120, a viscosity of the medical fluid10, and the mechanical properties of the tubing 102.

Advantageously, and as described herein, the first plunger biasingmember 164 a can maintain a constant or chronic force to allow theplunger 110 to maintain contact with the tubing 102 during the fillingphase to permit measurement of the pumping volume. In the depictedexample, the force applied by the first plunger biasing member 164 a canbe sufficient to maintain contact with the tubing 102 while allowing forthe pumping volume 107 to be filled.

FIG. 4B is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 2A in adelivery phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 4C is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 ofFIG. 2A in a delivered position, in accordance with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. With reference to FIGS. 4B and 4C, theperistaltic pump 100 delivers medical fluid through a downstream portion108 to a downstream location, such as a patient. As illustrated, theplunger 110 is actuated, moved downward, or otherwise engaged tocompress the tubing walls 104 of the tubing 102 to compress the pumpingvolume 107 to a compressed or reduced state.

During operation, the compression of the pumping volume 107 expels orotherwise administers fluid from the pumping volume 107 to a downstreamlocation. The rate of administration of the medical fluid can becontrolled by the force and velocity of the plunger 110.

As described herein, the first plunger biasing member 164 a and thesecond plunger biasing member 164 b cooperatively force the plunger 110to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressed or reduced state. Insome embodiments, the second plunger biasing member 164 b can force theplunger 110 to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressed orreduced state without the cooperation of the first plunger biasingmember 164 a.

During administration, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 isblocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the upstream valve 120 toprevent or restrict inadvertent fluid flow into the pumping volume 107and to prevent or restrict backflow of fluid into the medical containerfrom the pumping volume 107.

In the depicted example, the upstream valve 120 is actuated, moveddownward, or otherwise engaged to compress the tubing walls 104 of thetubing 102 at the upstream portion 106 to occlude flow through theupstream portion 106 of the tubing 102. The upstream valve 120 caninclude a beveled engagement portion to contact the tubing 102. Whenengaged, the upstream valve 120 can prevent or restrict flow or fluidcommunication between the upstream portion 106 and the pumping volume107.

During the compression of the pumping volume 107, medical fluid isforced from the pumping volume 107 to a downstream location through thedownstream portion 108 of the tubing 102. As illustrated, during thecompression of the pumping volume 107, the downstream portion 108 of thetubing 102 is unobstructed by the downstream valve 130, permittingmedical fluid 10 to flow out of the tubing 102. During operation, thedownstream valve 130 is withdrawn or retracted from a compressed portionof the tubing 102, allowing the tubing walls 104 to resiliently expandthe downstream portion 108 to an original or expanded state.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the downstream portion 108permits the flow of medical fluid 10 out of the pumping volume 107. Themechanical resilience of the tubing 102 allows the tubing walls 104 toexpand from a compressed state to an expanded state, expanding thecross-sectional profile or flow area of the downstream portion 108. Therate at which the downstream portion 108 rebounds from a compressedstate to an expanded state can limit the size of the flow area oropening out of the pumping volume 107. Therefore, the rate at which thedownstream portion 108 rebounds from a compressed state to an expandedstate can limit or restrict the amount of fluid that can flow out of thepumping volume 107 in a given period of time.

The amount of medical fluid 10 administered from the pumping volume 107during the delivery phase can be determined by the timing and sequenceof the plunger 110, the downstream valve 130 and the mechanicalproperties of the tubing 102.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump 100, in accordancewith various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 5B is a simplifiedview of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5C is a back view ofthe peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 6 is an exploded view ofcomponents of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 5A. With reference toFIGS. 5A-6 , the peristaltic pump 100 can independently control theoperation of the first plunger valve rocker 111 a and the second plungervalve rocker 111 b to control the spring or biasing force applied to theplunger 110. Advantageously, the peristaltic pump 100 can be configuredto permit volume measurements without exerting excess force during ameasurement phase.

As previously described, the peristaltic pump 100 can include a camshaft150 to actuate the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or thedownstream valve 130. In the depicted example, the camshaft 150 includesone or more cam lobes, such as a first plunger cam lobe 154 a, a secondplunger cam lobe 154 b, an upstream valve cam lobe 152, and/or adownstream valve cam lobe 156.

In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 includes a splitrocker arrangement with a first plunger valve rocker 111 a directlycoupled to the plunger 110 and a second plunger valve rocker 111 bconfigured to act upon the first plunger valve rocker 111 a. In thedepicted example, the first plunger valve rocker 111 a is aligned,positioned, or otherwise configured to be actuated by the first plungercam lobe 154 a. During operation, a portion of the first plunger valverocker 111 a can engage or slide along the cam profile of the firstplunger cam lobe 154 a to translate the geometry of the cam profile intomovement of the first plunger valve rocker 111 a and the plunger 110. Ascan be appreciated, the first plunger valve rocker 111 a and thereforethe plunger 110 may be independently moved or actuated separate from theactuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b during certainportions of operation (e.g., a measurement phase).

In the depicted example, a first plunger biasing member 164 a can actupon the first plunger valve rocker 111 a to urge the plunger 110 towardthe tubing and/or the backer 180. As can be appreciated, actuation ofthe first plunger valve rocker 111 a by the rotation of the firstplunger cam lobe 154 a can overcome the biasing force to lift orotherwise actuate the plunger 110 independent of the second plungervalve rocker 111 b. Therefore, the force applied to the plunger 110 canvary in response to the actuation of the first plunger valve rocker 111a by the rotation of the first plunger cam lobe 154 a.

During operation, the arrangement of the first plunger valve rocker 111a, the first plunger cam lobe 154 a, and the first plunger biasingmember 164 a can allow the plunger 110 to contact the tubing during ameasurement phase without administering the fluid within the pumpingvolume or damaging the tubing.

In the depicted example, the second plunger valve rocker 111 b isaligned, positioned, or otherwise configured to be actuated by thesecond plunger cam lobe 154 b. During operation, a portion of the secondplunger valve rocker 111 b can engage or slide along the cam profile ofthe second plunger cam lobe 154 b to translate the geometry of the camprofile into movement of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b. In someembodiments, during certain movements (e.g., during a delivery phase ofoperation) the second plunger valve rocker 111 b can engage with thefirst plunger valve rocker 111 a to move the plunger 110 relative to thetubing in response to actuation from the second plunger cam lobe 154 b.

In the depicted example, a second plunger biasing member 164 b can actupon the second plunger valve rocker 111 b to urge the second plungervalve rocker 111 b toward the first plunger valve rocker 111 a. Duringcertain portions of operation (e.g., the delivery phase of operation)the second plunger biasing member 164 b can force the second plungervalve rocker 111 b to engage with the first plunger valve rocker 111 aand urge the plunger 110 toward the tubing and/or the backer 180. As canbe appreciated, actuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b bythe rotation of the second plunger cam lobe 154 b can overcome thebiasing force to disengage the second plunger valve rocker 111 b fromthe first plunger valve rocker 111 a. Accordingly, the biasing forceapplied by the second plunger biasing member 164 b to the first plungervalve rocker 111 a and/or the plunger 110 can vary in response to theactuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b by the rotation ofthe second plunger cam lobe 154 b. During operation, the arrangement ofthe second plunger valve rocker 111 b and the second plunger biasingmember 164 b relative to the first plunger valve rocker 111 a and thefirst plunger biasing member 164 a allows the peristaltic pump 100 toapply additional force to the plunger during certain portions ofoperation (e.g., the delivery phase) while allowing the a reduced forceduring other portions of operation (e.g., the measurement phase). Insome embodiments, the force applied by the second plunger biasing member164 b is higher than the biasing force applied by the first plungerbiasing member 164 a. Optionally, the force applied by the secondplunger biasing member 164 b is sufficient to allow fluid delivery. Insome embodiments, the first plunger biasing member 164 a and the secondplunger biasing member 164 b cooperatively provide sufficient force toallow for fluid delivery.

Further, the arrangement or phasing of the first plunger cam lobe 154 aand the second plunger cam lobe 154 b about the camshaft 150 can bemodified to provide a desired sequence of actuation or movement of thefirst plunger valve rocker 111 a and the second plunger valve rocker 111b as the camshaft 150 is rotated. For example, the cam lobes can eachhave a cam profile and/or a relative arrangement that includes ameasurement phase that applies the plunger to the tubing with a reducedspring force.

FIG. 7A is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 5A in afilling phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. During operation, the tubing 102 draws in medical fluid 10during the filling phase. As illustrated, the plunger 110 is withdrawnor retracted from a compressed portion of the tubing 102, allowing thetubing walls 104 to resiliently expand the pumping volume 107 to anoriginal or expanded state.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the pumping volume 107 drawsin fluid into the pumping volume 107. As illustrated, during theexpansion of the pumping volume 107, the downstream portion 108 of thetubing 102 is blocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the downstreamvalve 130 to prevent or restrict backflow or contamination of fluid intothe pumping volume 107.

During the expansion of the pumping volume 107, medical fluid 10 isdrawn into pumping volume 107 from the upstream portion 106 of thetubing 102. As illustrated, during the expansion of the pumping volume107, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 is unobstructed by theupstream valve 120, permitting medical fluid 10 into the pumping volume107. During operation, the upstream valve 120 is withdrawn or retractedfrom a compressed portion of the tubing 102, allowing the tubing walls104 to resiliently expand the upstream portion 106 to an original orexpanded state.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the upstream portion 106permits the flow of medical fluid 10 into the pumping volume 107.Advantageously, and as described herein, the arrangement of the firstplunger cam lobe 154 a and the second plunger cam lobe 154 b can preventthe first plunger biasing member 164 a and the second plunger biasingmember from applying force to the plunger 110 and/or the tubing 102during the filling phase.

FIG. 7B is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 5A in aninitial or measurement position, in accordance with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. After filling, the volume of medical fluidwithin the pumping volume 107 can be measured. As illustrated, theplunger 110 is used to measure the height of the pumping volume 107and/or the tubing 102 to determine the volume of medical fluid withinthe pumping volume 107.

During the measurement phase, the downstream portion 108 of the tubing102 remains blocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the downstreamvalve 130 to prevent or restrict backflow or contamination of fluid intothe pumping volume 107. Further, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing102 is blocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the upstream valve 120to prevent or restrict inadvertent fluid flow into the pumping volume107 and to prevent or restrict backflow of fluid into the medicalcontainer from the pumping volume 107.

Further, during measurement, the first plunger biasing member 164 aapplies a force to the plunger 110 to allow the plunger 110 to contactthe tubing 102 to determine the height of the tubing 102 and/or thepumping volume 107. In the depicted example, the force applied by thefirst plunger biasing member 164 a can be sufficient to maintain contactwith the tubing 102 without creating excess pressure within the pumpingvolume.

FIG. 7C is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 5A in adelivery phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 7D is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 ofFIG. 5A in a delivered position, in accordance with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. With reference to FIGS. 7C and 7D, theperistaltic pump 100 delivers medical fluid through a downstream portion108 to a downstream location, such as a patient. As illustrated, theplunger 110 is actuated, moved downward, or otherwise engaged tocompress the tubing walls 104 of the tubing 102 to compress the pumpingvolume 107 to a compressed or reduced state.

During operation, the compression of the pumping volume 107 expels orotherwise administers fluid from the pumping volume 107 to a downstreamlocation. The rate of administration of the medical fluid can becontrolled by the force and velocity of the plunger 110.

As described herein, the first plunger biasing member 164 a and thesecond plunger biasing member 164 b cooperatively force the plunger 110to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressed or reduced state. Insome embodiments, the second plunger biasing member 164 b can force theplunger 110 to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressed orreduced state without the cooperation of the first plunger biasingmember 164 a.

During administration, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 isblocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the upstream valve 120 toprevent or restrict inadvertent fluid flow into the pumping volume 107and to prevent or restrict backflow of fluid into the medical containerfrom the pumping volume 107.

During the compression of the pumping volume 107, medical fluid isforced from the pumping volume 107 to a downstream location through thedownstream portion 108 of the tubing 102.

FIG. 8A is a simplified perspective view of a peristaltic pump 100, inaccordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 8B is atop view of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 8A. FIG. 8C is a back viewof the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 8A. With reference to FIGS. 8A-8C,the peristaltic pump 100 can independently control the operation of afirst plunger 110 a and a second plunger 110 b to facilitate measurementof the volume within the tubing and to control the contact area andforce applied to the tubing. Advantageously, the configuration of theperistaltic pump 100 can permit volume measurements without exertingexcess force during a measurement phase.

In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 includes a firstplunger 110 a, a second plunger 110 b, an upstream occluder or valve120, and a downstream occluder or valve 130, each configured to contactand manipulate the tubing to deliver fluid from a fluid source to thepatient. In some embodiments, the first plunger 110 a, the secondplunger 110 b, the upstream valve 120, and the downstream valve 130 canmove in coordinated, sequential steps to pump fluid through the tubing.

In some embodiments, the first plunger 110 a can be configured tocontact the tubing to measure the volume within the pumping volume. Thesecond plunger 110 b can be configured to contact the tubing toadminister fluid during a delivery phase of operation. As illustrated,the first plunger 110 a and the second plunger 110 b can have differentgeometries to vary the contact area in contact with the tubing duringoperation. As illustrated, the first plunger 110 a can have a smallercontact area with the tubing compared to the second plunger 110 b. Insome embodiments, the first plunger 110 a and the second plunger 110 bcan have similar or same sized contact areas. Further, as describedherein, the first plunger 110 a and the second plunger 110 b can applydifferent or varying forces to the tubing.

As described herein, the first plunger 110 a, the second plunger 110 b,the upstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130 can be moved byone or more actuators.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of components of the peristaltic pump 100 ofFIG. 8A.

As previously described, the peristaltic pump 100 can include a camshaft150 to actuate the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or thedownstream valve 130. In the depicted example, the camshaft 150 includesone or more cam lobes, such as a first plunger cam lobe 154 a, a secondplunger cam lobe 154 b, an upstream valve cam lobe 152, and/or adownstream valve cam lobe 156.

In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 includes a splitrocker arrangement with a first plunger valve rocker 111 a directlycoupled to the first plunger 110 a and a second plunger valve rocker 111b directly coupled to the second plunger 110 b. In the depicted example,the first plunger valve rocker 111 a is aligned, positioned, orotherwise configured to be actuated by the first plunger cam lobe 154 a.During operation, a portion of the first plunger valve rocker 111 a canengage or slide along the cam profile of the first plunger cam lobe 154a to translate the geometry of the cam profile into movement of thefirst plunger valve rocker 111 a and the first plunger 110 a. As can beappreciated, the first plunger valve rocker 111 a and therefore thefirst plunger 110 a may be independently moved or actuated separate fromthe actuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b and the secondplunger 110 b during certain portions of operation (e.g., a measurementphase).

In the depicted example, a first plunger biasing member 164 a can actupon the first plunger valve rocker 111 a to urge the first plunger 110a toward the tubing and/or the backer 180. As can be appreciated,actuation of the first plunger valve rocker 111 a by the rotation of thefirst plunger cam lobe 154 a can overcome the biasing force to lift orotherwise actuate the first plunger 110 a independent of the secondplunger valve rocker 111 b and the second plunger 110 b. Therefore, theforce applied to the first plunger 110 a can vary in response to theactuation of the first plunger valve rocker 111 a by the rotation of thefirst plunger cam lobe 154 a.

During operation, the arrangement of the first plunger valve rocker 111a, the first plunger cam lobe 154 a, and the first plunger biasingmember 164 a can allow the first plunger 110 a to contact the tubingduring a measurement phase with a reduced contact area and withoutadministering the fluid within the pumping volume or damaging thetubing.

In the depicted example, the second plunger valve rocker 111 b isaligned, positioned, or otherwise configured to be actuated by thesecond plunger cam lobe 154 b. During operation, a portion of the secondplunger valve rocker 111 b can engage or slide along the cam profile ofthe second plunger cam lobe 154 b to translate the geometry of the camprofile into movement of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b and thesecond plunger 110 b. As can be appreciated, the second plunger valverocker 111 b and therefore the second plunger 110 b may be independentlymoved or actuated separate from the actuation of the first plunger valverocker 111 a and the first plunger 110 a during certain portions ofoperation (e.g., a delivery phase). In some embodiments, during certainmovements (e.g., during a delivery phase of operation) the secondplunger valve rocker 111 b can move in tandem with the first plungervalve rocker 111 a to move both the first plunger 110 a and the secondplunger 110 b.

In the depicted example, a second plunger biasing member 164 b can actupon the second plunger valve rocker 111 b to urge the second plunger110 b toward the tubing and/or the backer 180. As can be appreciated,actuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b by the rotation ofthe second plunger cam lobe 154 b can overcome the biasing force to liftor otherwise actuate the second plunger 110 b independent of the firstplunger valve rocker 111 a and the first plunger 110 a. Therefore, theforce applied to the second plunger 110 b can vary in response to theactuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111 b by the rotation ofthe second plunger cam lobe 154 b.

During operation, the arrangement of the second plunger valve rocker 111b and the second plunger biasing member 164 b relative to the firstplunger valve rocker 111 a and the first plunger biasing member 164 aallows the peristaltic pump 100 to apply additional force to the tubingvia the first plunger 110 a and the second plunger 110 b during certainportions of operation (e.g., the delivery phase) while allowing the areduced force via the first plunger 110 a during other portions ofoperation (e.g., the measurement phase). In some embodiments, the forceapplied by the second plunger biasing member 164 b to the second plunger110 b is higher than the biasing force applied by the first plungerbiasing member 164 a to the first plunger 110 a. Optionally, the forceapplied by the second plunger biasing member 164 b to the second plunger110 b is sufficient to allow fluid delivery. In some embodiments, thefirst plunger biasing member 164 a and the second plunger biasing member164 b cooperatively provide sufficient force via the first plunger 110 aand the second plunger 110 b to allow for fluid delivery.

Further, the arrangement or phasing of the first plunger cam lobe 154 aand the second plunger cam lobe 154 b about the camshaft 150 can bemodified to provide a desired sequence of actuation or movement of thefirst plunger 110 a and the second plunger 110 b as the camshaft 150 isrotated. For example, the cam lobes can each have a cam profile and/or arelative arrangement that includes a measurement phase that applies thefirst plunger 110 a to the tubing with a reduced spring force and adelivery phase that applies the second plunger 110 b with additionalforce.

FIG. 10A is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 8A in afilling phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. During operation, the tubing 102 draws in medical fluid 10during the filling phase. As illustrated, the first plunger 110 a andthe second plunger 110 b are withdrawn or retracted from a compressedportion of the tubing 102, allowing the tubing walls 104 to resilientlyexpand the pumping volume 107 to an original or expanded state.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the pumping volume 107 drawsin fluid into the pumping volume 107. As illustrated, during theexpansion of the pumping volume 107, the downstream portion 108 of thetubing 102 is blocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the downstreamvalve 130 to prevent or restrict backflow or contamination of fluid intothe pumping volume 107.

During the expansion of the pumping volume 107, medical fluid 10 isdrawn into pumping volume 107 from the upstream portion 106 of thetubing 102. As illustrated, during the expansion of the pumping volume107, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 is unobstructed by theupstream valve 120, permitting medical fluid 10 into the pumping volume107. During operation, the upstream valve 120 is withdrawn or retractedfrom a compressed portion of the tubing 102, allowing the tubing walls104 to resiliently expand the upstream portion 106 to an original orexpanded state.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the upstream portion 106permits the flow of medical fluid 10 into the pumping volume 107.Advantageously, and as described herein, the arrangement of the firstplunger cam lobe 154 a and the second plunger cam lobe 154 b can preventthe first plunger biasing member 164 a and the second plunger biasingmember from applying force to the first plunger 110 a, the secondplunger 110 b, and/or the tubing 102 during the filling phase.

FIG. 10B is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 8A in ameasurement position, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. After filling, the volume of medical fluid within thepumping volume 107 can be measured. As illustrated, the first plunger110 a is used to measure the height of the pumping volume 107 and/or thetubing 102 to determine the volume of medical fluid within the pumpingvolume 107.

During the measurement phase, the downstream portion 108 of the tubing102 remains blocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the downstreamvalve 130 to prevent or restrict backflow or contamination of fluid intothe pumping volume 107. Further, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing102 is blocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the upstream valve 120to prevent or restrict inadvertent fluid flow into the pumping volume107 and to prevent or restrict backflow of fluid into the medicalcontainer from the pumping volume 107.

Further, during measurement, the first plunger biasing member 164 aapplies a force to the first plunger 110 a to allow the first plunger110 a to contact the tubing 102 to determine the height of the tubing102 and/or the pumping volume 107. In the depicted example, the forceapplied by the first plunger biasing member 164 a via the first plunger110 a can be sufficient to maintain contact with the tubing 102 withoutcreating excess pressure within the pumping volume.

FIG. 10C is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 8A in adelivery phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 10D is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 ofFIG. 8A in a delivered position, in accordance with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. With reference to FIGS. 10C and 10D, theperistaltic pump 100 delivers medical fluid through a downstream portion108 to a downstream location, such as a patient. As illustrated, thefirst plunger 110 a and the second plunger 110 b are actuated, moveddownward, or otherwise engaged to compress the tubing walls 104 of thetubing 102 to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressed or reducedstate.

During operation, the compression of the pumping volume 107 expels orotherwise administers fluid from the pumping volume 107 to a downstreamlocation. The rate of administration of the medical fluid can becontrolled by the force and velocity of the first plunger 110 a and thesecond plunger 110 b.

As described herein, the first plunger biasing member 164 a and thesecond plunger biasing member 164 b cooperatively force the firstplunger 110 a and the second plunger 110 b, respectively, to compressthe pumping volume 107 to a compressed or reduced state. In someembodiments, the second plunger biasing member 164 b can force thesecond plunger 110 b to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressedor reduced state without the cooperation of the first plunger biasingmember 164 a or the first plunger 110 a.

During administration, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 isblocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the upstream valve 120 toprevent or restrict inadvertent fluid flow into the pumping volume 107and to prevent or restrict backflow of fluid into the medical containerfrom the pumping volume 107.

During the compression of the pumping volume 107, medical fluid isforced from the pumping volume 107 to a downstream location through thedownstream portion 108 of the tubing 102.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump 100, in accordancewith various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 11B is a simplifiedview of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 11A. In the depicted example,the peristaltic pump 100 includes a feeler pin 190 to measure the volumeof the fluid being delivered to the patient. In the depicted example,the peristaltic pump 100 includes a plunger 110, an upstream occluder orvalve 120, and a downstream occluder or valve 130, each configured tocontact and manipulate the tubing to deliver fluid from a fluid sourceto the patient. Advantageously, the configuration of the peristalticpump 100 can permit volume measurements without a dedicated measurementphase.

In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 can include a camshaft150 to actuate the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or thedownstream valve 130. In the depicted example, the camshaft 150 includesone or more cam lobes, such as a plunger cam lobe 154, an upstream valvecam lobe 152, and/or a downstream valve cam lobe 156.

As described herein, the geometry of the respective cam lobes can beshaped or modified to allow for a desired actuation or movement of theplunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130. Insome embodiments, the cam lobes of the camshaft 150 actuate one or morerockers to control the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or thedownstream valve 130.

In the depicted example, biasing members, such as springs can urge theplunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or the downstream valve 130toward the tubing and/or the backer 180.

Further, the arrangement or phasing of the cam lobes about the camshaft150 can be modified to provide a desired sequence of actuation ormovement of the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and/or thedownstream valve 130 as the camshaft 150 is rotated. For example, theplunger cam lobe 154, the upstream valve cam lobe 152, and/or thedownstream valve cam lobe 156 can each have a cam profile and/or arelative arrangement that eliminates or otherwise does not include adedicated measurement phase where the plunger 110 is actuated against apumping volume of the tubing closed by the upstream valve 120 and thedownstream valve 130.

In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 includes a singlerocker arrangement with a plunger valve rocker 111 directly coupled tothe plunger 110. In the depicted example, the plunger valve rocker 111is aligned, positioned, or otherwise configured to be actuated by theplunger cam lobe 154. During operation, a portion of the plunger valverocker 111 can engage or slide along the cam profile of the plunger camlobe 154 to translate the geometry of the cam profile into movement ofthe plunger valve rocker 111 and the plunger 110. In the depictedexample, a plunger biasing member 164 can act upon the plunger valverocker 111 to urge the plunger 110 toward the tubing and/or the backer180. As can be appreciated, actuation of the plunger valve rocker 111 bythe rotation of the plunger cam lobe 154 can overcome the biasing forceto lift or otherwise actuate the plunger 110. Therefore, the forceapplied to the plunger 110 can vary in response to the actuation of theplunger valve rocker 111 by the rotation of the plunger cam lobe 154.

In some embodiments, an upstream valve rocker 121 is coupled to theupstream valve 120 and can move the upstream valve 120 in response toactuation from the upstream valve cam lobe 152. As illustrated, anupstream valve biasing member 162 can act upon the upstream valve rocker121 to urge the upstream valve 120 toward the tubing and/or the backer180.

Similarly, a downstream valve rocker 131 is coupled to the downstreamvalve 130 and can move the downstream valve 130 in response to actuationfrom the downstream valve cam lobe 156. Similarly, a downstream valvebiasing member 166 can act upon the downstream valve rocker 131 to urgethe downstream valve 130 toward the tubing and/or the backer 180.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the feeler pin 190 of the peristalticpump 100 of FIG. 11A. With reference to FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 12 , thefeeler pin 190 can determine the volume of fluid administered by theperistaltic pump 100. During operation, the feeler pin 190 can be usedto determine the height of the pumping volume within the tubing 102,which can be used to determine the volume of the fluid administered bythe peristaltic pump 100.

In the depicted example, the feeler pin 190 can extend through theplunger 110 to contact the tubing 102 disposed between the plunger 110and the backer 180. As illustrated, the feeler pin 190 can extendthrough a slot 115 formed through the plunger 110. In some embodiments,the feeler pin 190 has a rounded tip to contact the tubing 102.

During operation, the feeler pin 190 can move with the tubing 102 as theheight of the pumping volume changes. In some embodiments, the feelerpin 190 can include a biasing member 196 configured to urge the feelerpin 190 toward the tubing 102, allowing the feeler pin 190 to maintaincontact with the tubing during operation. As can be appreciated, thebiasing force of the biasing member 196 can be sufficient to maintaincontact with the tubing 102 without exerting excess force on the tubing.Optionally, the biasing member 196 can exert the biasing force againstthe feeler pin 190 via a feeler plate 197. An opposite end of thebiasing member 196 can engage against a feeler pin bracket 191.

In some embodiments, the feeler pin 190 is coupled to the peristalticpump 100 via the feeler pin bracket 191. The feeler pin bracket 191 caninclude a passage to support the feeler pin 190 during operation.Optionally, the feeler pin bracket 191 can constrain the movement of thefeeler pin 190 in a single measurement direction. For example, thefeeler pin bracket 191 can constrain the movement of the feeler pin 190in an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tubing 102.

In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 can measure theposition or height of the feeler pin 190 to determine the height of thepumping volume in the tubing 102. As illustrated, the peristaltic pump100 can include a position transducer 194 to detect the position of thefeeler pin 190. The feeler pin 190 can include a trigger portion 192that provide a signal or identifiable portion of the position transducer194. Optionally, the trigger portion 192 can be magnetic and provide asignal to the position transducer 194. The position transducer 194 canbe mounted parallel to the direction of travel of the feeler pin 190 viaa mounting bracket 195. The height or position of the feeler pin 190 canbe utilized to determine the volume of the pumping volume within thetubing 102.

FIG. 13A is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 11A in afilling phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. During operation, the tubing 102 draws in medical fluid 10during the filling phase. In the depicted example, the expansion of thepumping volume 107 draws in fluid into the pumping volume 107.

As illustrated, during the expansion of the pumping volume 107, thedownstream portion 108 of the tubing 102 is blocked, pinched, orotherwise occluded by the downstream valve 130 to prevent or restrictbackflow or contamination of fluid into the pumping volume 107.

In the depicted example, the downstream valve 130 is actuated, moveddownward, or otherwise engaged to compress the tubing walls 104 of thetubing 102 at the downstream portion 108 to occlude flow through thedownstream portion 108 of the tubing 102. During the expansion of thepumping volume 107, medical fluid 10 is drawn into pumping volume 107from the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the upstream portion 106permits the flow of medical fluid 10 into the pumping volume 107.Advantageously, and as described herein, the feeler pin 190 can extendthrough the plunger 110 to maintain contact with the tubing 102 duringthe filling phase to permit measurement of the pumping volume. In thedepicted example, the force applied by the biasing member 196 can besufficient to maintain contact with the tubing 102 while allowing forthe pumping volume 107 to be filled.

FIG. 13B is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG. 11A in adelivery phase, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 13C is an illustration of the peristaltic pump 100 ofFIG. 11A in a delivered position, in accordance with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. With reference to FIGS. 13B and 13C, theperistaltic pump 100 delivers medical fluid through a downstream portion108 to a downstream location, such as a patient. As illustrated, theplunger 110 is actuated, moved downward, or otherwise engaged tocompress the tubing walls 104 of the tubing 102 to compress the pumpingvolume 107 to a compressed or reduced state.

During operation, the compression of the pumping volume 107 expels orotherwise administers fluid from the pumping volume 107 to a downstreamlocation. As described herein, the plunger biasing member 164 force theplunger 110 to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressed orreduced state.

During administration, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 isblocked, pinched, or otherwise occluded by the upstream valve 120 toprevent or restrict inadvertent fluid flow into the pumping volume 107and to prevent or restrict backflow of fluid into the medical containerfrom the pumping volume 107.

In the depicted example, the upstream valve 120 is actuated, moveddownward, or otherwise engaged to compress the tubing walls 104 of thetubing 102 at the upstream portion 106 to occlude flow through theupstream portion 106 of the tubing 102. During the compression of thepumping volume 107, medical fluid is forced from the pumping volume 107to a downstream location through the downstream portion 108 of thetubing 102.

In the depicted example, the expansion of the downstream portion 108permits the flow of medical fluid 10 out of the pumping volume 107. Theamount of medical fluid 10 administered from the pumping volume 107during the delivery phase can be determined by the timing and sequenceof the plunger 110, the downstream valve 130 and the mechanicalproperties of the tubing 102.

Advantageously, and as described herein, the feeler pin 190 can maintaincontact with the tubing 102 during the delivery phase to permitmeasurement of the pumping volume during the entire cycle, providingmore information to a clinician without interrupting fluid delivery.

The present disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the various aspects described herein. The disclosureprovides various examples of the subject technology, and the subjecttechnology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications tothese aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, andthe generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects.

A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “oneand only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.”Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one ormore. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine andneuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings andsubheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit theinvention.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example orillustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” isnot necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over otheraspects or designs. In one aspect, various alternative configurationsand operations described herein may be considered to be at leastequivalent.

A phrase such as an “aspect” does not imply that such aspect isessential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to allconfigurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to anaspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations.An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspectmay refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase such as an“embodiment” does not imply that such embodiment is essential to thesubject technology or that such embodiment applies to all configurationsof the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an embodiment mayapply to all embodiments, or one or more embodiments. An embodiment mayprovide one or more examples. A phrase such an embodiment may refer toone or more embodiments and vice versa. A phrase such as a“configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential tothe subject technology or that such configuration applies to allconfigurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to aconfiguration may apply to all configurations, or one or moreconfigurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. Aphrase such a configuration may refer to one or more configurations andvice versa.

In one aspect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values,ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that areset forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow,are approximate, not exact. In one aspect, they are intended to have areasonable range that is consistent with the functions to which theyrelate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

In one aspect, the term “coupled” or the like may refer to beingdirectly coupled. In another aspect, the term “coupled” or the like mayrefer to being indirectly coupled.

Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear” and the like if used inthis disclosure should be understood as referring to an arbitrary frameof reference, rather than to the ordinary gravitational frame ofreference. Thus, a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, and arear surface may extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally, orhorizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.

Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a differentorder, or partitioned in a different way) all without departing from thescope of the subject technology. All structural and functionalequivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughoutthis disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those ofordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by referenceand are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothingdisclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless ofwhether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claimelement is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112,sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using thephrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element isrecited using the phrase “step for.” Furthermore, to the extent that theterm “include,” “have,” or the like is used, such term is intended to beinclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” isinterpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

The Title, Background, Summary, Brief Description of the Drawings andAbstract of the disclosure are hereby incorporated into the disclosureand are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, not asrestrictive descriptions. It is submitted with the understanding thatthey will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Inaddition, in the Detailed Description, it can be seen that thedescription provides illustrative examples and the various features aregrouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamliningthe disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted asreflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires morefeatures than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as thefollowing claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than allfeatures of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The followingclaims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with eachclaim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects describedherein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with thelanguage claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. Notwithstanding,none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails tosatisfy the requirement of 35 U.S.C. § 101, 102, or 103, nor should theybe interpreted in such a way.

What is claimed is:
 1. A peristaltic pump comprising: a plunger movableto selectively engage a pumping volume of a tubing segment to expand thepumping volume to draw fluid flow into the pumping volume and tocontract the pumping volume to conduct fluid flow from the pumpingvolume, wherein the plunger defines a slot extending through theplunger; and a position transducer configured to receive a signal inresponse to a height of the pumping volume in an axis extending throughthe slot and perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tubing segment.2. The peristaltic pump of claim 1, wherein the position transducer ismounted parallel to the axis extending through the slot andperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tubing segment.
 3. Theperistaltic pump of claim 2, wherein the position transducer is mountedto a mounting bracket.
 4. The peristaltic pump of claim 1, wherein theposition transducer receives a magnetic signal.
 5. The peristaltic pumpof claim 1, further comprising a sensing trigger configured to providethe signal to the position transducer in response to the height of thepumping volume in the axis extending through the slot and perpendicularto the longitudinal axis of the tubing segment.
 6. The peristaltic pumpof claim 5, wherein the sensing trigger is configured to move inresponse to the height of the pumping volume in the axis extendingthrough the slot and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thetubing segment.
 7. The peristaltic pump of claim 1, further comprising afeeler pin movable to maintain contact with the tubing segment, whereinthe feeler pin provides the signal to the position transducer.
 8. Aperistaltic pump comprising: a plunger movable to selectively engage apumping volume of a tubing segment to expand the pumping volume to drawfluid flow into the pumping volume and to contract the pumping volume toconduct fluid flow from the pumping volume, wherein the plunger definesa slot extending through the plunger; and a sensing trigger configuredto provide a signal in response to a height of the pumping volume in anaxis extending through the slot and perpendicular to a longitudinal axisof the tubing segment.
 9. The peristaltic pump of claim 8, wherein thesensing trigger is configured to move in response to the height of thepumping volume in the axis extending through the slot and perpendicularto the longitudinal axis of the tubing segment.
 10. The peristaltic pumpof claim 8, wherein the sensing trigger provides a magnetic signal. 11.The peristaltic pump of claim 8, comprising a position transducermounted parallel to the axis extending through the slot andperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tubing segment.
 12. Theperistaltic pump of claim 11, wherein the position transducer is mountedto a mounting bracket.
 13. The peristaltic pump of claim 8, furthercomprising a feeler pin movable to maintain contact with the tubingsegment, wherein the sensing trigger is coupled to the feeler pin.
 14. Amethod comprising: expanding a peristaltic pumping volume of a tubingsegment via a plunger defining a slot extending through the plunger; andreceiving a signal corresponding to a height of the tubing segment in anaxis extending through the slot and perpendicular to a longitudinal axisof the tubing segment via a position transducer.
 15. The method of claim14, further comprising mounting the position transducer parallel to theaxis extending through the slot and perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis of the tubing segment.
 16. The method of claim 15, furthercomprising mounting the position transducer to a mounting bracket. 17.The method of claim 14, further comprising receiving a magnetic signalvia the position transducer.
 18. The method of claim 14, furthercomprising providing a signal to the position transducer via a sensingtrigger in response to the height of the pumping volume in the axisextending through the slot and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ofthe tubing segment.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprisingmoving the sensing trigger in response to the height of the pumpingvolume in the axis extending through the slot and perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis of the tubing segment.
 20. The method of claim 14,further comprising: maintaining contact with the tubing segment via afeeler pin; and providing the signal to the position transducer.